Shanghai is not only the largest city in China--it's one of the largest cities on the entire planet. Originally a fishing town, Shanghai has now grown to be one of the most fashionable and cosmopolitan cities on earth, attracting millions of tourists each year. Rich in history, culture, as well as all of the worldliness of a massive city, Shanghai makes an ideal tourist spot. If you're planning on visit Shanghai, here are some of the best tourist attractions.

Go to Shanghai Museum (Bowuguan Shanghai). This is the best museum in China when it comes to classical art. Founded in 1922, visitors to the Shanghai Museum will be exposed to ceramics from prehistoric civilizations, ink drawings, calligraphy and rare coins and furnishings (see Resources below).

Spend an afternoon at Yuyuan Garden. This garden, located in the northeastern section of Shanghai, has been in existence since 1559. Consisting of both an outer and inner garden, some features of the garden include the popular and elegant Huxin Ting Teahouse and a unique zig zag bridge (see Resources below).

Explore the Jade Buddha Temple. This temple is the location of two beautiful Burmese Shakyamuni statues brought to china by a monk called Huigen. This temple was completed in 1928 (after a decade of construction) and is a lovely place to explore Buddhist culture and enjoy history (see Resources below).

Visit Nanjing Lu. This is the main shopping street of Shanghai. Always popular and bustling, there's nothing that can't be found on Nanjing Lu, including restaurants, department stores, restaurants, bars, nightclubs and movie theaters. This is the perfect place to take advantage of Shanghai's excellent shopping options, from mid-range to high end prices (see Resources below).

Gaze at Shanghai from the Oriental Pearl TV Tower. This imposing tower is an excellent place to get a panoramic bird's eye view of this glimmering metropolis. Located in Pudong Park, this building is approximately 153 feet high and has an observation deck that provides visitors with a great view of Shanghai and surrounding areas.